THE MAGAZINE PARENTS LIVE BY IN DALLAS-FORT WORTH
2021
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GUIDE TO EDUCATION
Parents and educators must work together to develop the best plan for a child in special education. p. 12
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CONTENTS 6 Class Struggle How to help a child who isn’t thriving at school 10 Better Together Build a strong parent- teacher relationship 12 ARD at Work Special education meetings, decisions and services
16 Homeschool During
COVID-19 What to know if you’re considering homeschool 20 Multiple Choice More families are taking the charter school route— should you? 25 The Private School List The details to know on local private schools
40 The Public Schools
A roundup of independent school districts across Dallas-Fort Worth 46 Answer Key Choosing the best option for your child’s education
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COVER ILLUSTRATION BY JOY GALLAGHER
DFWChild ’s Guide to Education is published annually by Lauren Publications, Inc. DFWChild’s Guide to Education is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Additional copies of DFWChild’s Guide to Education are available for $2 per copy at the offices of Lauren Publications, Inc. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. DFWChild’s Guide to Education is ©2021 by Lauren Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission prohibited.
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ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL CHALLENGES
Class Struggle When a child’s academic difficulties or social challenges linger, how do you help them?
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WORDS ALEXIS PATTERSON
HE TRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT works well for a lot of kids. But a lot of others are struggling. Perhaps there are academic difficulties. Or maybe your child can complete the work but at a different pace (faster or slower) than their peers. It could be that your child is unable to find a solid group of friends. The reasons a child may not thrive in a typical classroom—or a virtual one—are many, and so are the resulting questions for parents. What’s a normal challenge for a kid to overcome? What requires intervention? How do you make sure your child is getting the support they need?
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gling, or—especially among littler ones—they just don’t know how to self-advocate at school. That was an issue for Bridget Robinson’s son Micah. Robinson, a teacher in Dallas ISD, set about encouraging her son to find his voice. “I tell him, ‘If you’re stuck, you need to ask. Don’t sit there for 20 minutes not doing anything,’” Robinson says, adding that “we teach kids to be quiet and listen, but kids also need to be able to speak up.’” Dallas ISD Chief Academic Officer Shannon Trejo agrees. “They don’t want to raise their hand and say they don’t understand. It’s an ongoing issue, but it can be even harder or affect more kids in a virtual environment.” THE ACADEMIC APPROACH It’s easy to understand that children who are behind academically can struggle in the classroom, but so can above-average kids. A Dallas mom we’ll call Ana Garcia says her son sat bored at the computer much of last year as his fourth-grade teacher worked to oversee both oncampus and remote students on varying levels.
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SPEAK UP Children can be masters at hiding troubles, which can delay getting them help. A mom we’ll call Kathryn Johnston, who lives in Tarrant County, had no idea anything was amiss with her middle schooler—until the emails and calls from teachers informing Johnston that her daughter wasn’t turning in work, or writing “IDK” (tween shorthand for I don’t know) as a response. “She broke down and talked about emotional challenges she was having at school,” says Johnston. “She’s a sensitive soul, a sweet girl. She’s tried sports and activities and hasn’t found her thing or her group. She says she doesn’t fit in, and those emotional issues are driving the academic issues. “When she does the schoolwork, she does well,” Johnston continues. “She just gets so distracted in the school environment. She feels that if she asks any questions or asks for help, she’ll be embarrassed.” That’s a common theme among kids who are having trouble in school. They don’t want their classmates or even their teachers to know they’re strug-
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ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL CHALLENGES
For kids who are ahead of the curve, Garcia coordinator. “There’s a trend of stress increasing and recommends asking the teacher for extra science coping declining, and it’s happening at younger ages. projects, reading and other assignments. Parents It’s getting into elementary school now.” can inquire about gifted and talented options, and Some districts incorporate social-emotional an instrument, art classes, sports lessons and other learning into the school day. “Dallas ISD has builtactivities can make good use of advanced kids’ extra in morning meetings in elementary schools and time and mental energy. advisory periods in secondary schools to focus on As to the flip side—when students don’t comrelationship-building,” shares Juany Valdespinoprehend material or are unable to keep up—educaGaytán, Dallas ISD’s executive director of engagetors understand and have processes to identify them ment services. “This is an intentional effort to foster a at an early stage. “Although some students may not safe, supportive, welcoming environment.” meet criteria for special education, they may need It’s not perfect—kids aren’t always kind, and additional supports and resources to help close the everyone is going to have a bad day. When do you achievement gap,” says know your child is Lesa Shocklee, executive dealing with something director of special popumore? Raúl Peña, Fort lations for Little Elm ISD. Worth ISD’s chief of Schools use a student and school Some parents choose a private educavariety of methods to support, and Dorene tion for a struggling child. We talked help kids learn more Benavidez, the district’s with Kathy Edwards, founder and head effectively. Dynamic executive director of of school for The Novus Academy in grouping (grouping equity and excellence, Grapevine. Edwards notes that while you children who work at share these indicators: may be paying tuition, private schools similar paces), learning • Making excuses as such as hers may offer: software, learning speto why they don’t want • Smaller class size; cialists and tutoring are to go to school; • Further specialized programs all common. If campus • Giving few details and instruction; resources aren’t already and having a negative • More classmates facing similar being offered, don’t be attitude when asked academic or emotional issues, afraid to ask. And if questions about school; enabling increased opportunities your child has a diag• Difficulty sleeping for friendships. nosed learning differor lack of appetite; ence or another special • Not completing need, avail yourself of assignments or official accommodations. exaggerating about getting things right; A Fort Worth mom we’ll call Lauren Brewer says • Behavior problems at school or at home. her son with dyslexia receives accommodations and If your student is displaying those signs, or you the support of a district specialist—but Brewer and just sense they’re not in a good place, don’t wait to her husband work hard to support him as well. For get help. School counselors are an obvious resource; example, they talk about accomplished individuals you may seek private mental health support as well. with dyslexia. “We’ve also pushed him to understand how to use his mind as an instrument,” Brewer notes. TALK IT OUT “It’s important for him to understand that there is no The universal recommendation—however a child is ‘normal’ way to learn.” struggling—is to make sure the lines of communicaIndeed, a child’s family can provide critical astion between home and school are wide open. sistance. “Improving reading, math and writing skills “When my son started having problems, I was can be fun and part of another family activity,” says talking to the teacher and finding out exactly what Jennifer Price, executive director of curriculum and I could do,” says Robinson. “Parents need to speak instruction for Keller ISD. She suggests reading signs up. It’s your kid. Call up the school. Ask to talk to while riding in the car, practicing math at the grocery the teacher during planning period. Ask for websites, store, and writing thank-you notes or other letters. a workbook, anything that will help. Teachers want Parents can also make sure their children are better students to do well and be happy.” equipped to remain focused during homework time If you don’t feel heard by the teacher, don’t give or virtual learning. “Having your own school space up. Get in touch with an administrator—there are versus play space makes a difference,” Trejo advises. numerous people whose job is to facilitate your And helping kids stay organized and having a strucchild’s success. And talk to your child too. tured routine can pay dividends. “Simple reminders such as, ‘I know you have a spelling quiz on Friday; let’s practice your words on THE STRUGGLE IS REAL the way to the store,’ are a great way to be involved When your student’s struggles are rooted in emoand show a child that their school experience is tional issues, as they are for Johnston’s daughter, important,” says Keller ISD’s Price. don’t underestimate the challenge in solving them. Finally, let your student have their say—then “Anxiety, sadness, embarrassment—these can really advocate relentlessly for what you believe is in their interfere with concentration and perseverance in best interest. “Take the time to listen to your child,” school,” explains Paul Haggan, Argyle ISD’s crisis advises Brewer, “and trust your intuition.”
Private Road
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PA R E N T-T E A C H E R R E L AT I O N S H I P S
rapport with families from afar, but teachers are doing what they can. However a teacher communicates, don’t let it be one-sided, advises Ellen Gintautas, a special education teacher in Lovejoy ISD. “Do not hesitate to reach out and get to know your child’s teacher. We want to get to know you and build that relationship,” she emphasizes. “On the flip side, please provide us with grace. We are teaching during unprecedented times.” This year, some schools are offering an extension of virtual learning—a method that can pose challenges, particularly with littles. And it’s not easy for parents (whether they’re working from home or watching other kids) to sit at the computer and oversee lessons. If your child is struggling with a virtual platform, consult the teacher on how you can support WORDS ELISE MCVEIGH + ALEXIS PATTERSON your child being able to do the work on their own. “Parents need to advocate for ARCH 2020. SEEMS LIKE something where what’s expected from the child is very clear,” says Priscila Dilley, senior officer AGES AGO, RIGHT? The of the Leadership Academy Network, a partnerpandemic was just getting ship between Fort Worth ISD and Texas Wesleyan underway, and we were University. “Make sure you have a good understandgetting our first taste of crisis homeing of what the teacher wants and how the teacher is wanting it. Develop a relationship where you can schooling. There was so much uncertainsay, ‘Hey, this is not working for me. Help me.’ ty about when or if school would return Keep asking for help; this is new for everybody.”
Better Together Building the parent-teacher bond in unusual times
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At the current stage, the “crisis” aspect of our kids’ schooling has passed—but as COVID-19 goes on, things still aren’t normal. Is your child’s school offering virtual learning? If your student is on campus, will you send them to class in a mask? Will visitors be allowed? No matter what this year looks like, it’s imperative that we continue to support our children’s education as best we can, and that includes cultivating the parent-teacher relationship. TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION You no doubt had less face time (and maybe more FaceTime) with your child’s teacher in the last school year than before. That will likely be true, at least to some extent, in the year ahead. If you’re struggling with a lack of in-person interaction, rest assured that it’s not easy for teachers either. Every educator we chatted with confirmed that it’s harder to build 10
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SHOW OF SUPPORT For many moms and dads, volunteering provides an avenue to get to know a teacher and convey support. If your child’s school isn’t offering on-campus opportunities or you don’t feel comfortable volunteering in the building, ask about virtual or socially distanced volunteering. You might read to a class or tutor a student over Zoom, or cut out flash cards at home. “Think outside the box for ways to be involved,” suggests Lana Raley, a counselor in Highland Park ISD. Expressing appreciation could also be as simple as sending a handwritten note to school in your child’s folder. “Small things have ensured a better relationship and established a friendship and trust between our teachers and our family,” explains Vanessa Ayoub, a parent in Highland Park ISD. “I subscribe to the model of kindness and genuine interest. Teachers are always responsive when you care about them and show respect.”
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SPECIAL NEEDS
ARD at Work Advocating for your child’s education when they have special needs INTERVIEW ALEXIS PATTERSON
For families who are just starting this process, can you provide some background on ARD meetings?
DUSTIN RYNDERS: All decisions about the education of a student receiving special education services are made by an ARD committee that includes the parent. The committee determines academic and behavioral goals, accommodations, the amount and focus of any related services, and where 12
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the services will occur. The committee can also determine if a student needs assistive technology, such as a laptop, and if the student needs any compensatory educational services to make up for any time when instruction didn’t meet a student’s needs. ARD meetings occur at least once per year but can occur more frequently when needed. Parents or the school can request an ARD meeting whenever the student’s plan needs to be reviewed or changed.
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IF YOUR STUDENT HAS SPECIAL NEEDS, you’re probably familiar with admission, review and dismissal (ARD) meetings, which bring together school and family stakeholders to make decisions related to a child’s special education services. But are you making the most of that process and advocating for your child the best way you can, especially since COVID-19 began? Dustin Rynders, supervising attorney at Disability Rights Texas, shares what parents need to know.
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SPECIAL NEEDS
D.R.: The pandemic has created a huge need for school districts to hold ARD meetings for high percentages of students to adjust programming. They have also had to figure out how to deliver more services remotely, provide technology to students who don’t have it, and support parents who are struggling to provide in-home support. While some districts held an amazing number of remote ARDs and seemed to work very hard to provide direct instruction and related services—like speech therapy—virtually, others offered little more than suggestions about where parents could find existing homeschool resources. Sometimes these disparities existed between campuses in the same districts or even teachers within the same school.
What’s your take on virtual ARDs meetings?
D.R.: Some parents like that virtual ARDs allow them to participate without leaving their office or home. Some parents do not have sufficient cell phone data plans to allow video participation in long meetings. Educators also vary in their comfort facilitating effective virtual meetings. Overall, virtual ARD meetings have worked better than virtual instruction.
If a student is returning to campus for the first time since COVID-19 began, how can parents ensure their child’s needs are being met and that their individualized education program (IEP) is on track? D.R.: Most students will need to be reevaluated at the conclusion of virtual learning to see if they need compensatory education. Many parents will also have valuable information about how a child performed during virtual learning that ARD committees must consider in determining compensatory education and future educational services.
If a school determines that a child doesn’t need a particular accommodation that a parent has requested, what course of action do you recommend?
D.R.: As members of the child’s ARD committees, parents check “agree” or “disagree” at the end of every meeting. Whenever a parent checks “disagree,” a reconvene meeting is scheduled to allow others in the district to get involved in problemsolving the parent’s concerns. An outside facilitator can also be arranged. Parents can also use the
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Texas Education Agency (TEA) complaint process, mediation or even due process hearing system to resolve complaints.
How can parents ensure their children get compensatory services if their usual special education services were delayed or canceled due to COVID-19, and make sure they continue meeting their IEP goals?
D.R.: Parents can request compensatory education in an ARD committee if insufficient services kept their student from making meaningful progress. The parent should keep track of what services weren’t provided as well as any information showing that the child has regressed or failed to make meaningful progress because service wasn’t provided. TEA has prepared a handout for parents on compensatory services; you can find it on the TEA website, tea.texas.gov. Schools shouldn’t take requests for compensatory instruction personally, especially during this time. Even if we work together and try to overcome challenges, what is possible in this time won’t work for all students. We have to accept that fact, put students first and plan for the challenge of helping impacted students catch up.
How do you recommend that families best advocate for their students right now?
D.R.: Families and educators should strive to be solution-oriented. When something isn’t working, parents have to discuss the issue with educators to see what can be done. Everyone also has to accept that some students will need compensatory services. Parents who need more information or help navigating challenges with their child’s school can request advocacy assistance from Disability Rights Texas, drtx.org.
Log on, learn more
The TEA homepage, tea.texas.gov, has an emergency support section related to COVID-19. Resources include call center info for parents of kids enrolled in special education; articles on learning at home, managing behavior problems and coping with disrupted routines; and links for deeper dives into specific areas of concern. Parents and teachers can also review TEA guidance for special education and ARD committees.
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How has the pandemic impacted special education services and ARDs?
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HOMESCHOOLING
Homeschooling During COVID-19 Here’s what to know about this alternate option for education WORDS ELIZABETH SMITH
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If you do make the move in favor of home learning, you will be far from alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, homeschooling in Texas last year jumped from 3.3% to 11% of households with school-age children. That’s an estimated 750,000 homeschool families in more than 1,200 Texas school districts. To help families make informed decisions, Stephanie Lambert, the executive director of the nonprofit Texas Home School Coalition (THSC), shares what parents need to know, including factors on the legislative front. 16
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FUNDING HALTED FOR REMOTE SCHOOLING Playing a factor in high interest in homeschooling: the failure of Texas House Bill 1468 to get a vote before the legislative session ended. “Without funding in place, some North Texas independent school districts, including Allen and Ennis, notified parents of their decision to forego virtual learning programs this fall,” says Lambert. But check with your local school district to see if other options might have become available. After initially scrapping them, some school districts have
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S THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC STRETCHES INTO the new fall school session and concerns abound about whether masks should be required in schools and child care centers, some families are thinking twice about sending their children back to school. For parents who are weighing the risks and rewards of in-person classes, it’s worth reading up on another option: homeschooling.
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HOMESCHOOLING
since decided to offer online programs temporarily. Plano ISD announced it will offer a parent-led temporary virtual option through September 3, open to kids in pre-K through sixth grade. Frisco ISD will offer a temporary online option for students in Early Childhood programs through sixth grade. This online option will be offered at least through the first nine weeks of school and will be reevaluated after that. UIL EQUAL ACCESS One bill that did pass before the end of the Texas legislative session was House Bill 547, which opened access for homeschoolers to participate in sports and academics through the University Interscholastic League (UIL). “UIL participation has the potential to open up a whole new world of possibilities, as students in school districts who opt in to this new law will now have access to sports and other extracurricular activities that help them grow, socialize and succeed,” shares Lambert. The mention of “opting in” points to one big caveat—individual school districts will decide whether to participate, and homeschool students can participate in activities only in the districts near them. (Learn more details at thsc.org.) PUBLIC SCHOOL WITHDRAWAL If parents ultimately decide to go with homeschooling, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) requires them to formally withdraw their kids from public school—or they’ll face the possibility of truancy checks later. The THSC provides a submission form online and instructions for sending a notification email to your district. “Before you formally withdraw a student from the Texas public school system, you must establish an instruction plan with a curriculum in a visual form—e.g., books, workbooks, video instruction,” Lambert explains. “This curriculum must include the minimum of basic subjects: reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics and citizenship. There are several established homeschool curriculums available online, from a variety of sources, and at all levels of investment.” WHAT HOMESCHOOLING IS AND ISN’T “Homeschooling can be a wonderful opportunity to experience the flexibility and freedom of educating your children in an environment with more control than public schooling,” says Lambert. “Educational goals may be set according to the expectations and needs of your own children—which can be a liberating experience.” But even as homeschool parents have enhanced independence, they also have support available to them, adds Lambert. “It’s a common misconception to assume that homeschooling will leave you feeling isolated and alone with your lesson plans.” Visit thsc.org to learn more about the network of advocates and resources meant to empower parents and provide support, direction and information to meet your child’s needs. Annual memberships to THSC also provide homeschool planning tools, 18
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expert coaches and 24/7 legal consultation. For more questions about the Texas Home School Coalition, call the headquarters at 806/744-4441 or reach out via the website contact form.
Pros and Cons PRO: MAKE THE SWITCH ANYTIME Parents may withdraw children from inperson public school at any point during the calendar year. CON: NOT FEASIBLE FOR SINGLE-PARENT HOUSEHOLDS Homeschooling remains largely out of reach for single parents who work outside the home or who for other reasons cannot devote daytime hours to school. That’s especially true for families who have narrowed their support network due to COVID-19 precautions. PRO: FLEXIBILITY IN THE CURRICULUM Beyond the core subjects (reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics and good citizenship), the schedule, additional subjects—STEM, art, music and foreign language—and educational materials you choose are up to you. THSC has an online quiz to determine your child’s learning style (auditory, visual or kinesthetic), and the National Home School Association’s match tool at curriculummatch.com helps you find the right curriculum. A one-time $35 fee includes a one-year membership to NHSA. CON: THE PRICE TAG … No federal tax breaks or Texas-state funded vouchers exist for homeschooling, and you won’t get a break on your property taxes. According to the online education service Time4Learning, the average cost of curriculum, school supplies, field trips and extracurricular activities is $700–$1,800 per child per academic year. PRO: THE PRICE TAG! Some online curriculum is free. For example, Khan Academy offers online classes for all grade levels including advanced placement courses for high-schoolers at no cost, though the nonprofit does encourage monetary donations. Plus, benefits to the THSC membership include scholarships as well as discounts to partner providers. PRO: INTERNET NOT REQUIRED Homeschooling has been a legal alternative to public schooling since the Texas Supreme Court decided Leeper v. Arlington ISD in 1994, long before high-speed internet as we know it today. If your home’s location or access to a computer make connectivity unreliable, consider choosing written materials. Think textbooks, worksheets and crafts. Subscription boxes or kits, such as the STEM-focused Genius Box for ages 8–12, are another way to homeschool offline.
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CHARTER SCHOOLS
Multiple Choice Charter school, like public schools, are free and plentiful in North Texas, but here’s why some parents choose the charter school route
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WORDS ASHLEY HAYS-WEAVER
YNTHIA CAMPOS RECALLS THE DAY her daughter Anissa received her acceptance letter to the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts (FWAFA). “You would have thought she just got into an elite college. She was screaming and crying,” Campos says with a chuckle. Campos was living in Aledo at the time and looking to move back to Fort Worth, but says the determining factor was whether or not Anissa could get into a charter school. “Every time I looked up stats for the district we would be entering,” Campos explains, “it just didn’t line up with what we were getting in Aledo.”
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THE CHARTER COURSE
Since they are public, there can be confusion on how charter schools operate compared to independent school district campuses. Both are overseen by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and credentialed in factors including state accreditation, financial ratings and academic ratings. Charters are held accountable to the same academic standards, using State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR testing. (Charter schools that don’t meet academic or financial standards for three consecutive years must close. Traditional public schools with academic
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Ally Pires Tooley of Flower Mound says that charter schools landed on her radar once her son Nixon was preparing to enter kindergarten. “Our son is gifted,” she shares. “We live in Lewisville ISD, which is a great district. However, Founders Classical Academy offered that extra structure and support that he needed to really be challenged.” As 2019 enrollment numbers for Texas charter schools nearly tripled those of 2012, it’s clear that more parents are opting for those campuses. While charter schools are educating only 6.3% of Texas students, the stats reflect increasing interest.
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CHARTER SCHOOLS
struggles have five years before state intervention, such as replacing campus personnel.) Like traditional public schools, there isn’t an option for faith-based curriculum, and charters are tuition-free campuses. With those basics in mind, here are five factors to consider.
ALL ABOUT ADMISSIONS
There is a short, statewide admission application for open-enrollment charter schools; that application covers basic information on prospective students. Generally, charters serve students from designated geographic areas. (That was not the case when pandemic-driven virtual academies served students from all over Texas.) Boundaries tend to be extremely wide. “Most parents who have called us and applied are within the boundary,” says Rebecca Good, Ed.D., recently retired CEO and superintendent of Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy, which enrolls K–12 students at campuses in Plano and Mesquite. “We serve from Melissa up in the north to Duncanville and DeSoto in the south, and from Farmers Branch and Irving out to almost Greenville. The area is huge.” It is not uncommon in charters for more students to apply than the number of spots available. In that case, the charter either holds a lottery for open positions or fills spots in the order applications were received. In the lottery system, applications are selected at random. Once seats have been filled, remaining applicants go on a waitlist. If a seat becomes available, the next application is again blindly chosen to fill the void.
But smaller classes aren’t guaranteed. While there are statewide guidelines pertaining to class size, charters are not bound by those limits.
CAMPUS CULTURE
Diversity is another reason a parent may pursue a charter school education for their child. The Texas Public Charter Schools Association reports that public charter schools in Texas “have nearly double the rate of Hispanic teachers and four to five times as many Asian and Black teachers” compared to traditional school districts. Charters also enroll more children of color. So-called restorative practices are sometimes credited for lower discipline rates at charters. Rather than direct punitive measures, restorative practices may include talking circles, peer mediation and one-on-one counseling. While this approach may be used in public schools, it is often associated with charter schools. When it comes to parental involvement, charter schools are required to develop Family Engagement Plans, as are school districts. Campos says parental involvement is highly encouraged at her daughter’s school. “There are always opportunities for us to be involved in what our children are learning, whether that’s through helping them practice or study, or watching a performance.”
EXTRA- AND COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
While many charter campuses have extensive arts programs (such as band, choir and dance), Charter schools with a fine-arts specialization may robust athletics programs are less common. The require an audition as part of the process. Texas Charter School Academic & Athletic League schedules charter-to-charter volleyball, basketball, soccer and track competitions—but sports tend to be ACADEMIC APPROACH smaller and less competitive. In terms of student grades, charters operate under “When you’re a smaller school, you do have the same A–F point scale system as traditional public potentially less extracurricular options than a large schools, and the graduation requirements are the comprehensive high school, where they can afford to same. Charter school families, though, may find more offer more,” says Cooper. “We can latitude in how classes are strucoffer extracurriculars, but it’s going tured and learning is approached. to be more catered and limited to “We follow state curriculum, what [students] want.” but we’re able to package it in a way Of course, not every school will Want to find a charter school that’s more appealing to the kids,” offer the activities, or quality of near you? Search “charter says Good. “We use a lot of projectactivities, a family considers imporlocator map” on the TEA based learning.” tant. Misti McCalip’s children atCharter schools are not website, tea.texas.gov. tended a Fort Worth charter school permitted to discriminate against for four years before returning to students with disabilities, and 8% traditional public school, and slim of students in Texas public charters program offerings played a role in the decision. “[My have special needs. Meanwhile, a charter doesn’t have children’s charter school] just didn’t have enough to offer gifted and talented programs, but if it does, funding for things like band, athletics, art, special the campus must adhere to state policies. Most high needs or gifted programs,” she says. school charters offer honors, Advanced Placement and dual-credit classes.
Find a Charter
CLASS SIZES
Many parents who go the charter route are looking for a smaller student-to-teacher ratio and more personal learning environment. Brady Cooper, Grand Prairie’s Uplift Grand Preparatory High School academic director, says that’s the case at his school. “As principal, I know most of my scholars’ families,” Cooper says, adding that “in general, charter schools are going to be smaller than traditional public schools, which can definitely give you much more of a family feel.” 22
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CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONS
The bottom line is that parents and students have choices, and it’s important to research potential schools. There are excellent charter schools and then some that aren’t so good, as is true with other forms of education. Furthermore, each child has individual needs and interests, and there is no “one size fits all.” Tooley is happy to have the freedom to choose. “I appreciate that we now have a system that allows parents to be flexible with their children and look into what they need at the moment in order to have a child that grows and truly blossoms.”
dfwchild.com / 2021
23
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2021 / guide to education
PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST THE
Our comprehensive guide to Dallas-Fort Worth private schools COMPILED BY DFWCHILD EDITORS
A ©ISTOCK
PRIVATE SCHOOL MIGHT BE THE RIGHT CHOICE for your family if you’re seeking a faith-based education, smaller classes, a campus that focuses on special needs, or another specific learning environment. But which private school do you choose? There are lots of them in Dallas-Fort Worth, and this list is a great place to start your search. Find schools near you, plus facts on enrollment size, religious affiliation (if applicable), whether the campus caters to students with special needs or learning differences, and contact info. Details are provided by the schools, and we focus on campuses with at least four primary or three secondary grades. Whether you have an up-and-coming preschooler or a kid already thinking about college, this list is for you. Here’s to discovering the perfect fit! KEY: ▲ Special Needs ◆ Learning Differences ● Gifted & Talented
dfwchild.com / 2021
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THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
Collin Co. ALLEN
GUTHRIE SCHOOL, THE guthrieschool.com Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 86 INSPIRED LEARNING ACADEMY inspiredlearningacademy.org Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 14
CARROLLTON
PRINCE OF PEACE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL & EARLY LEARNING CENTER popcs.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 650
DALLAS
ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL allsaintsprek8.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 286 ANN & NATE LEVINE ACADEMY levineacademy.org Religious affiliation: Jewish Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 420 CAMPBELL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY campbellchristianacademy.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 100
FAIRVIEW
NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY, FAIRVIEW CAMPUS ntpaacademy.org Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 80
FRISCO
FRISCO MONTESSORI ACADEMY friscomontessori.com Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 200
LUCAS
LUCAS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY lucaschristianacademy.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 354
MCKINNEY
ACTON ACADEMY MCKINNEY actonmckinney.org Grades: Preschool–9 Total enrollment: 30 CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ccawarriors.com Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 352 MCKINNEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY mckinneychristian.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 545
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PLANO
BETHANY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL planochristianschool.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 40 CORAM DEO ACADEMY, COLLIN CAMPUS coramdeoacademy.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 518 EINSTEIN SCHOOL, THE theeinsteinschool.com Grades: 5–12 Total Enrollment: 150 FAITH LUTHERAN SCHOOL flsplano.org Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 140 FUSION ACADEMY PLANO fusionacademy.com/plano Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 100 GREAT LAKES ACADEMY ◆ greatlakesacademy.com Grades: 4–12 Total enrollment: 120 JOHN PAUL II HIGH SCHOOL johnpauliihs.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 700 NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY explorenewhope.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–7 Total enrollment: 100 NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY, PLANO CAMPUS ntpaacademy.org Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 80
PRINCE OF PEACE CATHOLIC SCHOOL popschool.net Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 800 ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL stmcs.net Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 550 SPRING CREEK ACADEMY ● springcreekacademy.com Grades: 3–12 Total enrollment: 120
PROSPER
PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, NORTH north.prestonwoodchristian.org Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 260
RICHARDSON
NORTH DALLAS ADVENTIST ACADEMY ndaacademy.org Religious affiliation: Adventist Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 225
WYLIE
WYLIE PREPARATORY ACADEMY wylieprep.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 286
Dallas Co. ADDISON
GREENHILL SCHOOL greenhill.org Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 1,330 TRINITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY trinitychristian.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 1,373
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55 Main St. #290 Colleyville 817-966-4821 dfwchild.com / 2021
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THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
CARROLLTON
CALVARY LUTHERAN SCHOOL calvarydallas.org Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 96
CEDAR HILL
CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL OF DALLAS, THE cambridgedallas.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: 5–12 Total enrollment: 100
ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, THE ◆ thestanthonyschool.com Grades: 1–12 Total enrollment: 78 TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL trinitychristianschool.com Religious affiliation: Assemblies of God Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 470
DALLAS
ACTON ACADEMY LAKEWOOD actonlakewood.org Grades: Preschool–5 Total enrollment: 24 AKIBA YAVNEH ACADEMY akibaacademy.org yavnehdallas.org Religious affiliation: Jewish Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 450
CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC SCHOOL cks.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 480 CORAM DEO ACADEMY, DALLAS CAMPUS coramdeoacademy.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–10 Total enrollment: 213
ALCUIN SCHOOL alcuinschool.org Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 515
COVENANT SCHOOL, THE covenantdallas.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 664
ALPHA alpha.school Grades: K–8 Total enrollment: N/A (opening 2021)
DALLAS ACADEMY ◆ dallas-academy.com Grades: 1–12 Total enrollment: 165
BENDING OAKS HIGH SCHOOL ◆ bendingoaks.com Grades: 8–12 Total enrollment: 50
DALLAS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY dallaschristianacademy.org Religious affiliation: Adventist Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 100
BISHOP DUNNE CATHOLIC SCHOOL bdcs.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 400 BISHOP LYNCH HIGH SCHOOL bishoplynch.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 1,005
DALLAS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL dallasinternationalschool.org Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 550 DALLAS LUTHERAN SCHOOL dallaslutheranschool.com Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: 7–12 Total enrollment: 180
EPISCOPAL SCHOOL OF DALLAS, THE esdallas.org Religious affiliation: Episcopal Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 1,150 FAIRHILL SCHOOL ◆ fairhill.org Grades: 1–12 Total enrollment: 150 FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY fbacademy.com Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 255 FUSION ACADEMY DALLAS fusionacademy.com Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 100 GERMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF DALLAS german-isd.com Grades: Preschool–4 Total enrollment: 113 GOOD SHEPHERD EPISCOPAL SCHOOL gsesdallas.org Religious affiliation: Episcopal Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 552 GRACE ACADEMY OF DALLAS graceacademy.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 200 HERITAGE SCHOOL OF TEXAS ◆ heritagestx.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: 1–8 Total enrollment: 65 HIGHLANDER SCHOOL highlanderschool.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 110 HILLIER SCHOOL ◆ hillierschool.org Religious affiliation: Presbyterian Grades: 1–8 Total enrollment: 33
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL htcsdallas.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 124 28
2021 / guide to education
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dfwchild.com / 2021
29
THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
JESUIT COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF DALLAS jesuitdallas.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 1,143 KESSLER SCHOOL, THE thekesslerschool.com Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 110 KINGDOM COLLEGIATE ACADEMY, DALLAS CAMPUS kcadallas.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 500 LAKEHILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL lakehillprep.org Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 350
LAMPLIGHTER SCHOOL, THE thelamplighterschool.org Grades: Pre-K–4 Total enrollment: 450 MESORAH HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS mesorahhighschool.org Religious affiliation: Jewish Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 60 MOUNT ST. MICHAEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL msmcatholic.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 85 NOTRE DAME SCHOOL OF DALLAS ▲ notredameschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 140 OAK HILL ACADEMY ◆ oakhillacademy.org Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 150 OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP CATHOLIC SCHOOL olphschooldallas.com Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 181 OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN SCHOOL ordallas.org Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 160 PARISH EPISCOPAL SCHOOL parish.org Religious affiliation: Episcopal Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 1,140 PRESTON HOLLOW PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL ◆ phps.org
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2021 / guide to education
Religious affiliation: Presbyterian Grades: K–6 Total enrollment: 130 PROVIDENCE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL OF TEXAS pcstx.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 450 ST. BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX CATHOLIC SCHOOL stbernardccs.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 130 ST. CECILIA CATHOLIC SCHOOL stceciliacatholic.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 141 ST. ELIZABETH OF HUNGARY CATHOLIC SCHOOL saintspride.com Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 175 ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL stjohnsschool.org Religious affiliation: Episcopal Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 500 ST. MARK’S SCHOOL OF TEXAS smtexas.org Religious affiliation: Non-Sectarian Episcopal Grades: 1–12 Total enrollment: 900 ST. MARY OF CARMEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL smcschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 145 ST. MONICA CATHOLIC SCHOOL stmonicaschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic
Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 731 ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC SCHOOL spsdallas.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 415 ST. PHILIP & ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC ACADEMY spsacatholic.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 287 ST. PHILIP’S SCHOOL & COMMUNITY CENTER stphilips1600.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–6 Total enrollment: 196 ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC SCHOOL spxdallasschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 290 ST. RITA CATHOLIC SCHOOL strita.net Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 722 ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC SCHOOL staschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 845 ST. TIMOTHY SCHOOL, THE thesainttimothyschool.org Religious affiliation: Anglican Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 55 SANTA CLARA CATHOLIC ACADEMY santaclaraacademy.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 126
©ISTOCK
LAKEWOOD MONTESSORI SCHOOL lmschool.org Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 70
Messiah Lutheran Classical Academy Christ-Centered Small Class Sizes Teacher Involved Family Friendly Choice of Traditional 5-Day or 2/3 Day Collaborative Learning Program
Preschool: 2-4 Years Old | Grammar School: K–8th Grade Tuition Assistance Available
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We partner with parents to equip their children to love learning and enrich God’s world.
1 Year Old – 6th Grade Academically Focused Joy Filled Spiritually Rich! ORDallas.org | 214.368.1465 7611 Park Lane – Dallas
Forming Habits. Training Minds. Shaping Hearts.
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W W W. P C S T X . O R G dfwchild.com / 2021
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THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 130
IRVING
CISTERCIAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL cistercian.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 5–12 Total enrollment: 355 HIGHLANDS SCHOOL, THE thehighlandsschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 354 HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC ACADEMY hfca-irving.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 150
SHELTON SCHOOL & EVALUATION CENTER ◆ shelton.org Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 990 SOUTHWEST ADVENTIST JUNIOR ACADEMY swaja.org Religious affiliation: Adventist Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 23 TYLER STREET CHRISTIAN ACADEMY tsca.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 96 URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS ursulinedallas.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 850 VANGUARD PREPARATORY SCHOOL ◆ vanguardprepschool.com Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 115 WESLEY PREP wesleyprep.org Religious affiliation: Methodist Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 448 WESTWOOD SCHOOL, THE westwoodschool.org Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 270 WHITE ROCK MONTESSORI whiterockmontessori.org Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 160 WHITE ROCK NORTH SCHOOL whiterocknorthschool.com Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 325 WINSTON SCHOOL, THE ◆ winston-school.org
32
2021 / guide to education
Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 166 ZION LUTHERAN SCHOOL ziondallas.org Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 255
ISLAMIC SCHOOL OF IRVING islamicschoolofirving.org Religious affiliation: Islamic Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 500
DESOTO
DESOTO PRIVATE SCHOOL desotoprivate.org Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 170
REDEEMER MONTESSORI SCHOOL redeemermontessori.org Religious affiliation: Episcopal Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 130
KINGDOM COLLEGIATE ACADEMY, DESOTO CAMPUS kcadesoto.org Grades: 6-12 Total enrollment: 170
ST. FRANCIS MONTESSORI stfrancisirving.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 115
FARMERS BRANCH
SLOAN SCHOOL, THE thesloanschool.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–5 Total enrollment: 102
MARY IMMACULATE SCHOOL mischool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: K–8 Total enrollment: 420
GARLAND
BRIGHTER HORIZONS ACADEMY bhaprep.org Religious affiliation: Islamic Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 800 FIREWHEEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY firewheelca.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 135 GARLAND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY garlandchristian.com Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 251 GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC SCHOOL gscschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 200
GRAND PRAIRIE
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL school.icgrandprairie.org
STONEGATE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY sgca.net Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 100
MESQUITE
DALLAS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL dallaschristian.com Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 500
RICHARDSON
BRIDGE BUILDER ACADEMY ◆ bridgebuilderacademy.com Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 45 IANT QURANIC ACADEMY myiqa.org Religious affiliation: Islamic Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 200 ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL stjosephccschool.net Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: K–8 Total enrollment: 230 ST. PAUL THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CLASSICAL SCHOOL spsdfw.org
©ISTOCK
SCOFIELD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL scofieldchristianschool.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–6 Total enrollment: 180
HUMANIST ACADEMY, THE thehumanistacademy.org Grades: Preschool–10 Total enrollment: 55
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dfwchild.com / 2021
33
THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
Denton Co. ARGYLE
LIBERTY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL libertychristian.com Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 940 SELWYN SCHOOL selwynschool.org Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 96
DALLAS
CHOICES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY choicesleadership.org Grades: Pre-K–5 Total enrollment: 50
DENTON
DENTON CALVARY ACADEMY dentoncalvary.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 205 IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL catholicschooldenton.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 150 KOAN SCHOOL, THE koanschool.org Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 52
FLOWER MOUND
CORAM DEO ACADEMY, FLOWER MOUND CAMPUS coramdeoacademy.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 736 EXPLORATIONS PREPARATORY SCHOOL explorationsprep.org Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 75 GRACE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY gcapatriots.org Religious affiliation: Independent Baptist Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 47 TEMPLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY templechristian.com Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 101
FRISCO
LEGACY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY legacyca.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 970
LEWISVILLE
LAKELAND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY lakelandchristian.org Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 225
PLANO
PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY prestonwoodchristian.org Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 1,390 ST. TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY ◆ staplano.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 24
PROSPER
ST. MARTIN DE PORRES CATHOLIC SCHOOL smdpcatholic.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 150
Hood Co. GRANBURY
GRACE CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY graceclassical.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 84
Johnson Co. BURLESON
HOLY CROSS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY hccaburleson.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 183
Parker Co. FORT WORTH
ANDERSON PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR THE GIFTED, TALENTED & CREATIVE ● andersonschool.net Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 25
WILLOW PARK
TRINITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY tcaeagles.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 516
Rockwall Co. HEATH
STARWOOD ACADEMY OF FRISCO starwoodschools.com Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 113
FULTON SCHOOL, THE thefultonschool.com Grades: Preschool–5 Total enrollment: 60
STARWOOD MONTESSORI SCHOOL starwoodmontessori.com Grades: Preschool–3 Total enrollment: 65
HERITAGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY hcarockwall.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 520
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2021 / guide to education
ROCKWALL
Tarrant Co. ARLINGTON
BURTON ADVENTIST ACADEMY burtonacademy.org Religious affiliation: Adventist Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 265 CHILDREN’S UNIVERSITY childrensuniversity.com Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 250 FLINT ACADEMY flintacademy.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 104 GREEN OAKS SCHOOL ▲ greenoaksinc.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 38 MERRYHILL PRESCHOOL & ELEMENTARY SCHOOL merryhillarlington.com Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 150 MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF ARLINGTON, THE tmaonline.org Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 200 NORTHSTAR SCHOOL northstarschool.net Grades: 7–12 Total enrollment: 50 OAKRIDGE SCHOOL, THE theoakridgeschool.org Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 700 PANTEGO CHRISTIAN ACADEMY pantego.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 550 PARK ROW CHRISTIAN ACADEMY parkrowchristian.net Religious affiliation: Church of Christ Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 190 ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL stjosephtx.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 285 ST. MARIA GORETTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL smgschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 220 ST. PAUL’S PREPARATORY ACADEMY stpaulsprep.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 206
AZLE
AZLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL azlechristianschool.org Religious affiliation: Christian
©ISTOCK
Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 130
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dfwchild.com / 2021
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THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 152
Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 1,093
BEDFORD
BETHESDA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL bcsfw.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 350
COLLEYVILLE
CALVARY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY calvaryacademy.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 250
MIDCITIES MONTESSORI midcitiesmontessori.com Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 45 COVENANT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY covenantchristian.net Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 620 CROWN OF LIFE LUTHERAN SCHOOL colschool.org Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 150 INSPIRE ACADEMY inspireacademytx.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 75 WAYPOINT MONTESSORI waypointmontessori.org Grades: Preschool–6 Total enrollment: 100
CROWLEY
CASSATA CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL cassatahs.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 120 CHRISTIAN COTTAGE PREP christiancottageprep.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 30 COVENANT CLASSICAL SCHOOL covenantfw.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 423
NAZARENE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY nazarenechristianacademy.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 208
CROSSROADS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, INC. ◆ crossroadsftworth.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: 7–12 Total enrollment: 60
FORT WORTH
FORT WORTH ACADEMY fwacademy.org Grades: K–8 Total enrollment: 160
ACTON ACADEMY FORT WORTH actonacademyfortworth.com Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 25 ALL SAINTS’ EPISCOPAL SCHOOL aseschool.org Religious affiliation: Episcopal
FORT WORTH ADVENTIST JUNIOR ACADEMY fwaja.org Religious affiliation: Adventist Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 53
FORT WORTH COUNTRY DAY fwcd.org Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 1,081 HILL SCHOOL OF FORT WORTH ◆ hillschool.org Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 110 HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC SCHOOL hfcsfw.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 111 JANE JUSTIN SCHOOL & CHILD STUDY CENTER UPPER SCHOOL, THE ▲ cookchildrens.org/child-study-center Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 76 KEY SCHOOL ◆ kcld.org Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 100 LAKE COUNTRY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL lccs.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 445 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF FORT WORTH msftw.org Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 178 MOSAIC ACADEMY mosaicacademy.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 110 NOLAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL nolancatholic.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: 9–12 Total enrollment: 712 ST. ANDREW CATHOLIC SCHOOL standrewsch.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 605
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL sharingnewlifespls.com Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 208
36
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ST. GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL stgeorgecatholicschool.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 100
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THE WESTWOOD SCHOOL
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dfwchild.com / 2021
37
THE PRIVATE SCHOOL LIST
ST. PETER’S CLASSICAL SCHOOL stpetersclassical.org Religious affiliation: Christian Orthodox Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 57 ST. RITA CATHOLIC SCHOOL saintritaschool.net Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 105 SHADY OAK ACADEMY ◆ shadyoak.org Grades: K–6 Total enrollment: 25 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL southwestchristian.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 828 TEMPLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL tcseagles.org Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 400 TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY STARPOINT SCHOOL ◆ starpoint.tcu.edu Religious affiliation: Disciples of Christ Grades: 1–6 Total enrollment: 60 TRINITY BAPTIST TEMPLE ACADEMY tbta.tbtchurch.org Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 140 TRINITY VALLEY SCHOOL tvs.org Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 1,017
GRAPEVINE
GRAPEVINE FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL grapevinefaith.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 816 HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL holytcs.org Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 300 NOVUS ACADEMY, THE ◆ thenovusacademy.org Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 48
HASLET
ALLIANCE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY & LITTLE SPROUTS PRESCHOOL acaknights.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 209 LEGACY CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY legacyclassical.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 124
KELLER
HARVEST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY hcasaints.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 330 MESSIAH LUTHERAN CLASSICAL ACADEMY mlcatexas.org Religious affiliation: Lutheran Grades: Preschool–8 Total enrollment: 65
ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL seascs.net Religious affiliation: Catholic Grades: Pre-K–8 Total enrollment: 490 TRINITY PREPARATORY ACADEMY trinityprepkeller.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 280
KENNEDALE
FELLOWSHIP ACADEMY fellowship-academy.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 350
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS
E.A. YOUNG ACADEMY ● eayoungacademy.com Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 72
FORT WORTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL fwc.org Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: Preschool–12 Total enrollment: 600 NORTH PARK CHRISTIAN ACADEMY northparknow.com Religious affiliation: Baptist Grades: Pre-K–4 Total enrollment: 23
SOUTHLAKE
ACTON ACADEMY SOUTHLAKE actonsouthlake.org Grades: K–12 Total enrollment: 30 CLARIDEN SCHOOL, THE claridenschool.org Grades: Pre-K–12 Total enrollment: 125 DFW PERFORMING ARTS CONSERVATORY dfwpac.com Religious affiliation: Christian Grades: 4–12 Total enrollment: 25
SOUTHLAKE MONTESSORI southlakemontessori.org Grades: Pre-K–6 Total enrollment: 20 38
2021 / guide to education
©ISTOCK
FUSION ACADEMY SOUTHLAKE fusionacademy.com Grades: 6–12 Total enrollment: 100
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THE
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
COMPILED BY DFWCHILD EDITORS
Dallas-Fort Worth Independent School Districts
O
F ALL EDUCATION OPTIONS, PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS commonly serve the widest range of students: children on pace, those who need some extra help, kids who are gifted, children with learning differences and students with special needs. The goal is to ensure that every child, from pre-K through high school, learns and thrives. Throw in the ever-changing COVID-19 situation and district responsibilities become even more complex than usual. Contact your district about campuses, services and resources—as well as how it’s handling in-person classes, any virtual options and more pandemic-specific topics. ALEDO
1008 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo 817/441-8327; aledoisd.org
ALLEN
612 E. Bethany Drive, Allen 972/727-0511; allenisd.org
ANNA
501 S. Sherley Road, Anna 972/924-1000; annaisd.org
ARGYLE
800 Eagle Drive, Argyle 940/464-7241; argyleisd.com
ARLINGTON
1203 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington; 682/867-4611; aisd.net 40
2021 / guide to education
AUBREY
415 Tisdell Lane, Aubrey 940/668-0060; www.aubreyisd.net
Burleson; 817/245-1000 burlesonisd.net
CARROLL
AZLE
2400 N. Carroll Ave., Southlake; 817/949-8222 southlakecarroll.edu
BIRDVILLE
CARROLLTONFARMERS BRANCH
300 Roe St., Azle; 817/444-3235; azleisd.net 6125 E. Belknap St., Haltom City 817/547-5700; birdvilleschools.net
BROCK
410 Eagle Spirit Lane, Brock 817/594-7642; brockisd.net
BURLESON
1160 SW Wilshire Blvd.,
1445 N. Perry Road, Carrollton; 972/968-6100 cfbisd.edu
CASTLEBERRY
5228 Ohio Garden Road, Fort Worth; 817/252-2000 castleberryisd.net
ACADEMIC TOOLS TO SUCCEED.
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Program Snapshot Meaningful Friendships & Building Community Research-Based Teaching Methods & Individualized Instruction Academics, Communication, & Social Skills Immersion Multi-Sensory Approach/Kinder Readiness Skills Focus on Social/Emotional Development Low Student/Teacher Ratio ABA, Speech, & Occupational Therapy Available by Licensed Therapy Providers (in-network with most major insurance carriers) Specialists in Autism
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TOUR TEACH ME ACADEMY TODAY:
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THE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS
CEDAR HILL
285 Uptown Blvd., Cedar Hill 972/291-1581; chisd.net
CELINA
205 S. Colorado St., Celina 469/742-9100; celinaisd.com
COPPELL
200 S. Denton Tap Road, Coppell; 214/496-6000 coppellisd.com
CROWLEY
512 Peach St., Crowley 817/297-5800; crowleyisdtx.org
DALLAS
9400 N. Central Expressway, Dallas; 972/925-3700 dallasisd.org
DENTON
1307 N. Locust St., Denton 940/369-0000; dentonisd.org
DESOTO
200 E. Belt Line Road, DeSoto 972/223-6666; desotoisd.org
DUNCANVILLE
710 S. Cedar Ridge Drive, Duncanville; 972/708-2000 duncanvilleisd.org
EAGLE MOUNTAINSAGINAW
1200 N. Old Decatur Road, Fort Worth; 817/232-0880 emsisd.com
EVERMAN
1520 Everman Parkway, Everman; 817/568-3500 eisd.org
FORT WORTH
100 N. University Drive, Fort Worth; 817/814-2000 fwisd.org
FRISCO
5515 Ohio Drive, Frisco 469/633-6000; friscoisd.org
GARLAND
501 S. Jupiter Road, Garland 972/494-8201; garlandisd.net
GRAND PRAIRIE
2602 S. Belt Line Road, Grand Prairie; 972/237-4000 gpisd.org
GRAPEVINE-COLLEYVILLE
3051 Ira E. Woods Ave., Grapevine; 817/251-5200 gcisd.net
HIGHLAND PARK
7015 Westchester Drive, Dallas 214/780-3000; hpisd.org
HURST-EULESSBEDFORD
1849 Central Drive, Bedford 817/283-4461; hebisd.edu 42
2021 / guide to education
IRVING
2621 W. Airport Freeway, Irving 972/600-5000; irvingisd.net
KELLER
350 Keller Parkway, Keller 817/744-1000; kellerisd.net
KENNEDALE
120 W. Kennedale Parkway, Kennedale; 817/563-8000 kennedaleisd.net
KRUM
1200 Bobcat Blvd., Krum 940/482-6000; krumisd.net
LAKE DALLAS
104 Swisher Road, Lake Dallas 940/497-4039; ldisd.net
LAKE WORTH
MESQUITE
3819 Towne Crossing Blvd., Mesquite; 972/288-6411 mesquiteisd.org
NORTHWEST
2001 Texan Drive, Justin 817/215-0000; nisdtx.org
PILOT POINT
828 S. Harrison St., Pilot Point 940/686-8700; pilotpointisd.com
PLANO
2700 W. 15th St., Plano 469/752-8100; pisd.edu
PONDER
400 W. Bailey St., Ponder 940/479-8200; ponderisd.net
PROSPER
6805 Telephone Road, Lake Worth; 817/306-4200 lwisd.org
605 E. Seventh St., Prosper 469/219-2000; prosper-isd.net
LANCASTER
400 S. Greenville Ave., Richardson; 469/593-0000 risd.org
422 S. Centre Ave., Lancaster 972/218-1400; lancasterisd.org
LEWISVILLE
1565 W. Main St., Lewisville 469/713-5200; lisd.net
LITTLE ELM
300 Lobo Lane, Little Elm 972/947-9340; littleelmisd.net
LOVEJOY
259 Country Club Road, Allen; 469/742-800 lovejoyisd.net
MANSFIELD
605 E. Broad St., Mansfield 817/299-6300; mansfieldisd.org
MCKINNEY
1 Duvall St., McKinney 469/302-4000; mckinneyisd.net
MELISSA
1904 Cooper St., Melissa 972/837-2411; melissaisd.org
RICHARDSON
ROCKWALL
1050 Williams St., Rockwall 972/771-0605; rockwallisd.com
SANGER
601 Elm St., Sanger 940/458-7438; sangerisd.net
SUNNYVALE
417 E. Tripp Road, Sunnyvale 972/226-5974; sunnyvaleisd.com
WEATHERFORD
100 Longhorn Drive, Weatherford; 817/598-2800 www.weatherfordisd.com
WHITE SETTLEMENT
401 S. Cherry Lane, White Settlement; 817/367-1300 www.wsisd.com
WYLIE
951 S. Ballard Ave., Wylie 972/429-3000; wylieisd.net
dfwchild.com / 2021
43
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MAPPING MAPPING
ISD25 Krum
380
Your Options Options Your
ISD30
argy ISD22
114
ISD29 Roanoke
287
Westlake
81
keller
35W
27
IS Sou
ISD46 37
azLE ISD35
ISD41
16
Saginaw
199
north richland hills ISD36
820 ISD48
121 ISD39
ISD50
Weatherford
fort worth
7
43
28
30
15
aledo
ISD32
4
Benbrook 44
ISD31
820 29
ISD43
41
36 14 36
ISD47 ISD40
ISD42
377 Crowley ISD37 Burleson
35W
1 – Alcuin School
13 – Fairhill School
26 – Life School (6)
2 – Alpha Private School
14 – Fort Worth Academy
3 – Ann & Nate Levine Academy
15 – Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts
27 – Messiah Lutheran Classical Academy
4 – Basis Charter Schools
16 – Fort Worth Christian School
5 – Behavior Exchange Early Start Program (B.E.E.S.) (2)
17 – Foxcroft School
6 – Challenger School
19 – Grace Academy of Dallas
7 – Covenant Classical School
20 – Grapevine Faith Christian School
8 – The Covenant School
18 – Goldberg Early Childhood Center
28 – Mosaic Academy 29 – Oakridge School 30 – Our Redeemer Lutheran School 31 – Parish Episcopal School (2)
38 – St. Philip’s School and Community Center 39 – St. Rita Catholic School 40 – Teach Me Academy/Camden Hill Montessori 41 – Texas School of the Arts 42 – Trinity Christian Academy, Addison
32 – Pediatrics Plus--DFW
43 – Trinity Christian Academy, Willow Park
21 – Greenhill School
33 – Providence Christian School of Texas
44 – Trinity Valley School
9 – Crown of Life Lutheran School
22 – Hockaday School
34 – River Legacy Foundation
10 – Dallas Academy
23 – Inspire Academy
35 – Shelton School
11 – Dallas International School (2)
24 – The Lamplighter School
36 – Southwest Christian School (2)
12 – The Day School at Highland Park Pres
25 – Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy (3)
37 – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School
44
2021 / guide to education
45 – Ursuline Academy of Dallas 46 – Wesley Prep 47 – The Westwood School (2) 48 – White Rock Montessori School 49 – Winston School
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
17
ISD2
Celina
aubrey
To Middleburg, VA
ISD23
289
377
ISD7
denton
ISD5
380
ISD24
mckinney
289 35E
32
Little Elm ISD28
5
ISD26
yle
ISD3
Frisco dallas north to llway
highland village
the colony
CARROLLTON
bu s
40
flower mound
h
ISD6 Plano
turnpike
35 13
26 42
ge
eo president g
121 114
SD38 uthlake
9
ISD11
grapevine
20
23
635
121
35E
114 183
Euless
11
75 ISD8
25
ISD21
grand praIrie
ISD34
rockwall
Rowlett ISD15
10
67
48
38 ISD12
30 ISD33
635
2
arlington
78
garland
dallas 30
Wylie
Murphy
190
ISD17
34
ISD4
ISD1
richardson
21 47 31 31 8 39 11 22 24 1 18 19 49 45 30 46 33 12 75
ISD18 irving
ISD45
3
addison
farmers branch
161
colleyville
r
ISD9
ISD44
allen
6 5
ISD27 lewisville
m sa
ay lw ol nt ur yb a r
25
80
mesquite ISD20
26
161 ISD16
20
26
360
45
20
175
Duncanville ISD14
26
35E Cedar Hill ISD10
ISD49 mansfield
67
Desoto 26 ISD19 ISD13
26 To Red Oak & Waxahachie
SCHOOL DISTRICTS COLLIN COUNTY ISD1 – Allen ISD ISD2 – Celina ISD ISD3 – Frisco ISD ISD4 – Lovejoy ISD ISD5 – McKinney ISD ISD6 – Plano ISD ISD7 – Prosper ISD
ISD12 – Dallas ISD
ISD26 – Lake Dallas ISD
ISD36 – Birdville ISD
ISD13 – DeSoto ISD
ISD27 – Lewisville ISD
ISD37 – Burleson ISD
ISD14 – Duncanville ISD
ISD28 – Little Elm ISD
ISD38 – Carroll ISD
ISD15 – Garland ISD
ISD29 – Northwest ISD
ISD39 – Castleberry ISD
ISD16 – Grand Prairie ISD
ISD30 – Ponder ISD
ISD40 – Crowley ISD
ISD17 – Highland Park ISD ISD18 – Irving ISD
PARKER COUNTY
ISD19 – Lancaster ISD
ISD31 – Aledo ISD
ISD20 – Mesquite ISD
ISD32 – Weatherford ISD
ISD21 – Richardson ISD
ISD8 – Wylie ISD
ROCKWALL COUNTY DENTON COUNTY
ISD33 – Rockwall ISD
ISD41 – Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD ISD42 – Everman ISD ISD43 – Fort Worth ISD ISD44 – Grapevine-Colleyville ISD ISD45 – Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD ISD46 – Keller ISD ISD47 – Kennedale ISD
DALLAS COUNTY
ISD22 – Argyle ISD
ISD9 – Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD
ISD23 – Aubrey ISD
TARRANT COUNTY
ISD48 – Lake Worth ISD
ISD10 – Cedar Hill ISD
ISD24 – Denton ISD
ISD34 – Arlington ISD
ISD49 – Mansfield ISD
ISD11 – Coppell ISD
ISD25 – Krum ISD
ISD35 – Azle ISD
ISD50 – White Settlement ISD
dfwchild.com / 2021
45
EXPERT ADVICE
Answer Key Choosing the school that’s right for your child
P
WORDS ALEXIS PATTERSON
UBLIC SCHOOLS, MAGNET SCHOOLS, PRIVATE SCHOOLS, charter schools, homeschool, online academies—when it comes to your child’s education, you definitely have options. How to choose? We tapped Eleanor Munson, Ph.D., who leads Dallas Educational Consultants, for advice on navigating that decision process—so you can find the school that best meets your family’s needs and maximizes your child’s growth and development.
❑
❑
❑
46
DETERMINE YOUR “MUST-HAVES.”
Maybe your child has a learning difference, and you need a school with a certain learning environment. A faith-based curriculum could be important. What are you able to spend on tuition? How far are you willing to drive? Do you definitely want a neighborhood public school, or perhaps a charter school with a particular focus?
❑
❑
THINK ABOUT YOUR WANTS.
Now bring in your personal preferences. These may be aspects such as whether you want your child to wear a uniform, or what types of advanced programs (IB, AP, dedicated gifted classrooms versus a weekly program) that a school offers. If you want your child to get started on learning a second language, is that part of the curriculum?
❑
DIVE INTO SCHOOL WEBSITES.
❑
“Typically school websites include the handbook, curriculum guide, course offerings and more,” shares Munson. “Make a spreadsheet and note what schools have both your musthaves and your preferences.” 2021 / guide to education
TOUR THE POSSIBILITIES.
Munson recommends visiting as many schools as you can. “You’ll have a sense of whether a school fits your child and your family,” she explains. Virtual tours may be available. CHECK THE FINE PRINT.
Magnet schools and private schools have different admission processes than neighborhood public schools. Munson says to check the school website for info and call the office with any questions. If you’re interested in a particular public campus, make sure your address is zoned for that school. KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN.
“If you are choosing a private or magnet school, be realistic about the competition and cast a wide net,” Munson advises. “Be sure you have at least one ‘safety school’ on your list.” SEE HOW IT GOES.
Munson points out that you haven’t committed your child for their entire education: “Things can change, and if you decide you haven’t found the best choice, you can move your child to a different school if you need to.”
Looking for fun things to do with your family? Check out the calendar on dfwchild.com to see what cool things are happening—festivals, events and familyfriendly destinations. Get out and take advantage of all that Dallas–Fort Worth has to offer.
Visit our calendar: dfwchild.com/calendar
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